I first became interested in Ham Radio when I was 14 and an active SWL in High School. I was lucky to be in a school that offered Electronics as an alternative to an un-needed subject and fortunately had WA1FCE, my uncle Charlie, (1916-1992), for an Elmer who gave me my Novice exam at 15 years old. I also flew a Cessna 150 solo at what was then T.F. Green Airport at age 15 where I was taking weekly flying lessons. That gave me both my Student Pilot Licence and Novice Ham Licence before my drivers licence. At 16 years old I took a day out of school, drove up to the FCC in the old Customs House in Boston, Ma. and passed my General (WB1CGJ) in front of an intimidating FCC examiner. Many years later I upgraded to my current Advanced class and received a better call for the pileups (KE1JF).

Since failed lumbar fusion surgery in mid 2008 Ham Radio has become a huge part of my life. I operate on all HF bands from 160 thru 10 meters where I'm an active DX'er and Contester on Phone & RTTY. I try to meet with friends on 75 and 160 meters late nights when conditions allow.

My station consists of an Icom IC-7600, 756 Pro III, IC-7000, Kenwood TS-2000 and a Yaesu FT-7900r. I use an MFJ-998 Legal Limit Auto Tuner when needed and a Rigblaster Plus for the digital modes. When higher power is needed I use an Ameritron AL-80B or ALS-600. For mic's I have a Heil 781G, Heil iCM, Heil PR-20 and a GM-4. I also use a Heil Pro Set 5 with all of my rigs.

My antennas consist of an 80 - 10 Windom at 45' and a W4KIO Hex Beam turned by a Yaesu Rotor. I hope to replace the 160 meter windom that came down over the winter. Although I have VHF & UHF equiptment and antennas I operate mainly on HF only. For emergencies I have a Generac 240v, 20 Kw. natural gas entire house generator.

5 Band W4KIO Hex Beam;

I enjoy watching NASCAR Modified Racing (and listening in on their radio communications) at Thompson Speedway in Ct., all televised NASCAR Racing (with online scanner) and I enjoy listening to the tower at our major airport. I grew up from day one with the Providence Red's, Bruins and Boston Bruins, so Hockey is in my blood, but after my lower back surgery I can no longer skate.